A typically magical image from the Oscar-nominated "The Secret of Kells"

Is it a reflection on Hollywood’s falling graces that some of the best films of last year – “Up,” “Fantastic Mr. Fox,” “Coraline” – were ostensibly aimed at kids?

Maybe. But why not look at it as a sign of just how good and grown-up so-called “children’s films” can really be?

You can get an even better sense of that at the New York International Children’s Film Festival, which begins Friday and runs through March 21.

There will be tons of feature-film premieres, including the Oscar-nominated “The Secret of Kells,” an eye-catching treatment of Celtic mythology. There will be specially curated short-film programs like “Shorts for Tots” (for the under-6 set) and “Heebie Jeebies” (scary pics for older kids).

And there will be some unusual events, too. Like the “I’m No Dummy Workshop,” in which children can get some quick tips on ventriloquism. Or informal classes in acting, clay animation and more for kids and teens. Or Q-and-A sessions with the featured filmmakers.

The festival, currently in its 13th season, will feature more than 100 films at half-a-dozen different New York venues; there’s literally something for everyone. Visit the festival's site for tickets and more information.